Self-Employed Residence Permits in Rwanda
Who it is for
Under the 2019 Ministerial Order, class C covers foreigners with a prescribed profession or with special qualifications and skills. C1 is for an entrepreneur with a prescribed profession. C2 is for a professional player or artist, and DGIE lists it with the employment permits.
Documents for a new C1 permit
- An application letter and a detailed curriculum vitae.
- The full business registration certificate.
- A certificate of membership of a registered professional body.
- An original police clearance from the country where you lived for the previous six months.
To renew, DGIE asks for a copy of the trading licence (patente).
The order of the steps
DGIE asks for both the professional body certificate and the business registration certificate with a new application. Join the professional body and register the business with RDB first, then apply for the permit on IremboGov within 15 days of arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can get a C1 self-employed permit?
Professionals in a regulated profession who are members of the relevant professional body.
What does a C1 permit cost?
RWF 150,000, valid for 2 years and renewable.
What is the C2 permit?
The C2 permit is for players and artists and costs RWF 100,000.
Sources
- Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration: Business investor and entrepreneur permits
- Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration: Ministerial Order N°06/01 of 29/05/2019 relating to immigration and emigration (PDF)
- Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration: Employment permits
- Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration: Permits, general information
Figures checked 8 November 2026. Prepared by InvestRwanda.com for general information. It is not investment, tax or legal advice; please confirm details with a qualified adviser before acting.
